Huangpu River Cruise
Huangpu River: The Largest River in Shanghai
The Huangpu River is known as the "Mother River of Shanghai". This river, which was anciently called Huangxie Pu or Chunshen Jiang, stands out as the most abundant waterway in the Shanghai region. It divides Shanghai into two parts: Puxi and Pudong, with a total length of approximately 114 kilometers and a width ranging from 300 to 700 meters. As the last important tributary of the Yangtze River before it empties into the sea, the Huangpu River occupies a vital position in the geography and culture of Shanghai.>> Recommended 7-day Shanghai Yangzte cruise tour
What to Choose: Cruise or Ferry
The Huangpu River ferry is a common means of transportation. It is like a bus on the river, shuttling along the bustling Huangpu River bank, providing an economical way for citizens and tourists to cross the Huangpu River. Generally, the ferry departs every 20 minutes, and it costs 2 yuan for a one-way trip, which takes less than 10 minutes.
Conversely, the Huangpu River cruise presents a more enriched and luxurious experience. Ticket prices vary between 100 and 800 yuan, with a sightseeing tour duration ranging from 45 minutes to 120 minutes. Aboard the cruise ship, you can indulge in the breathtaking scenery on both banks of the Huangpu River. Hence, a cruise has become the top choice for a journey along the Huangpu River rather than a ferry.
Huangpu River Cruise Routes & Prices
There are mainly three types of Huangpu River cruises in Shanghai, namely Classic Cruise, Express Cruise, and Themed Cruise, among which the Classic Cruise is the most popular and cost-effective.Classic Cruise Tour of Huangpu River
The Classic Cruise, as its name suggests, is the route that best embodies the essence of Shanghai among the Huangpu River cruises. It covers the most classic attractions on both sides of the Huangpu River in Shanghai, allowing you to deeply experience the landscapes of this city.
Cruise Route: Shiliupu Tourism Wharf → Binjiang Avenue → Shanghai Tower → Shanghai International Convention Center → Oriental Pearl TV Tower → Yangpu Bridge → North Bund → Magnolia Plaza → Waibaidu Bridge → The Bund International Architecture Exhibition → Shiliupu Tourism Wharf.Duration: About 45 minutes.
Ticket Price:
| Season | Day Cruise(Before 18:00) | Night Cruise(After 18:00) |
| Peak Season (Feb 26 – Nov 25) | ¥120 | ¥150 |
| Off Season (Nov 26 – Feb 25) | ¥100 | ¥120 |
| Public Holidays | ¥150 | ¥150 |
Tip: You can book a Huangpu River cruise ticket online, which is cheaper than booking from a Huangpu River cruise ticket office near the wharves.
Huangpu River Cruise Schedule (Classic Cruise)
| Cruise Type | Reference Departure Times |
| Day Cruise | 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00 |
| Night Cruise | 18:20, 18:40, 19:00, 19:15, 19:30, 19:45, 20:05, 20:20, 20:35, 20:55, 21:15, 21:35 |
Boarding Places for Huangpu River Cruise
1. Shiliupu Tourism Wharf Area 1
Location: No. 491, Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Huangpu District, ShanghaiHow to Get There: Take Metro Line 10 or Line 14 and get off at Yuyuan Garden Station, exit through Exit 7. Then walk for about 15 minutes, and you’ll be there.
2. Shiliupu Tourism Wharf Area 2
Location: No. 551, Zhongshan East 2nd Road, Huangpu District, ShanghaiHow to Get There: Take Metro Line 10 or Line 14 and get off at Yuyuan Garden Station, exit through Exit 7. The wharf is a 15-minute walk.
>> Recommended 3-day Shanghai highlights tour with Huangpu River cruise
What to See on a Huangpu River Cruise
As you board the cruise ship, you will see the dazzling lights and highlights of the scenic spots on both sides of the Huangpu River. Below are the top attractions to see during your Huangpu River cruise.The Bund
Starting from Shiliupu Tourism Wharf, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Bund all the way. The international architectural complex on the Bund is each a work of art. Along the way, the historic buildings on the Bund and the modern skyline of Lujiazui complement each other, allowing you to take breathtaking Huangpu River Cruise photos.
Yangpu Bridge
Aboard the cruise, you will see the unique shape of the Yangpu Bridge bathed in a golden halo by the sunlight during the day. And at night, the bridge is radiant with color, forming a beautiful picture with the tranquil Huangpu River.Oriental Pearl TV Tower
The Huangpu River cruise is also a moving viewing platform, from which you can admire the Oriental Pearl Tower from different angles. At night, it transforms into an elegant giant, gradually illuminating with countless lights, ushering every traveler into the opening chapter of a visual spectacle.Shanghai Tower
As the Huangpu River cruise ship sails past Lujiazui, you'll find the lighting show of the Shanghai Tower breathtakingly beautiful. As a new landmark of Shanghai, the Shanghai Tower stands at a height of 632 meters, making it the tallest building in China.Day Cruise vs Night Cruise
Whether you opt for a day tour or a night cruise, the Huangpu River promises unique delights. By day, the riverbanks' architectures collectively present Shanghai's stunning skyline, while onboard broadcasts narrate the history of the buildings you pass by. Additionally, you have the opportunity to admire bridge structures like the Yangpu Bridge and the Nanpu Bridge, as well as capture stunning photographs.Nevertheless, the Huangpu River night cruise remains the favorite among most tourists. At night, the Huangpu River becomes even more dreamlike, with the neon lights on both banks reflecting off the river water, forming a beautiful picture. The classic and modern architectures stand in harmonious contrast against the night sky, enhancing the enchantment of the city. If you wish, you can enjoy the Huangpu River cruise dinner on board. It must be a wonderful experience during your Shanghai tours to appreciate the scenery while tasting the delicious Shanghai cuisine.
